Republic of Ireland assistant coach Liam Brady unafraid of French ahead of the World Cup Playoff

Republic of Ireland assistant coach Liam Brady holds no fear of the French ahead of their World Cup playoff on November 14 and 18.

"We are not afraid of the French team. We are always at our best when we are outsiders. That is also in Irish blood. We love when people say we have no chance. That is when we are the most dangerous. We can make it," the former Juventus player told French reporters.

Brady, one of the greatest Irish midfielders to ever play on the national team, is confident the latest generation can overcome their lofty opponents.

"Our performances during World Cup qualifiers and the fact we were very close to winning our group have created a trust atmosphere in our team and the whole country."

Ireland will need that trust if they are to win in November. Brady played again the French himself in the 1978 World Cup qualifying campaign and it was his goal that separated the teams in Dublin on March 30, 1978.

However, the French beat the Irish at home four months before that, and when Ireland slipped up against Bulgaria, the French advanced to the World Cup in Argentina.

"It seems our two countries always have rendezvous when there is a World Cup to play,” continued Brady.

"Unfortunately for us, we have always failed, but it was very close. Maybe it is time to stop the 'tradition'."

Brady believes the Trapattoni era has brought a new sense of purpose to the Irish squad.

"I believe we have new organization qualities, which directly come from our manager. Even if he is 70 years old, he has an amazing enthusiasm for the game and the preparation of the team.

"I have to say on that level I don't know anyone superior to him. He has created a system based on a perfect organization and the morale of the group that we frankly missed before.

"I don't agree with people who say we play an Italian style of football. Our Irish culture is still present and it remains essential. We have always played with passion and it has not changed.

"Frankly, I don't care about people who consider us technically weaker than France. Football is not only a matter of individual talent and flair - there are a lot of other ingredients that makes a team."